|
When the Wirtz family purchased the Chicago Blackhawks in 1954, William Wirtz, a 1950 graduate of Brown University, took his place along with father Arthur M. Wirtz and brother Michael in the reshaping and the redevelopment of the franchise.
He became President of the club in 1966. Auspiciously, in his first year as President, the Chicago Blackhawks finished tops in their division for the first time in team history. Since that 1966- 67 season, the team has recorded 13 divisional titles, and captured a President's Trophy. In only eight seasons since 1967 did the team not qualify for playoff competition.
His leadership has extended beyond Chicago to the NHL itself. Wirtz was elected nine times as Chairman of the NHL Board of Governors. Inside Hockey called William Wirtz the most respected Governor in the National Hockey League. Having served as Chairman eighteen years, Wirtz stepped down following the 1991-92 season.
Among the accomplishments during his tenure as Chairman was the merger of the WHA with the NHL in the late 1970's, the further expansion of the League and the entry of European players into the League. Known as a man of his word, William Wirtz presently sits on the National Hockey League Executive Committee.
His achievements have been recognized: induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1976; the reception of the Lester Patrick Trophy in 1978, (both honors also accorded his father); induction into the United States Hockey Hall of Fame in 1985; and the respect of his peers as a "natural leader." Wirtz also served on both the 1980 and 1984 Winter Olympic Committees.
Under the guidance of Mr. Wirtz, Chicago Blackhawk Charities has funded the many programs of the Amateur Hockey Association of Illinois (AHAI) helping promote the advancement of youth hockey on all levels in the state. For many years, the Blackhawks have hosted the Illinois State High School Championship game at the Chicago Stadium and now the United Center in which the winner is awarded the Blackhawk Cup symbolic of the NHL's Stanley Cup. In addition, he is a past Chairman of the Prairie State Games (Illinois 1984-85), and he presently serves as Trustee for the Chicago Latin School Foundation.
The decision to construct a new arena for the team was a difficult one for the Wirtz family. Chicago Stadium had been a family property since 1936, long before ownership of the Blackhawks was a reality, and he had literally grown up within its walls. He had seen and met legendary stars of the entertainment world there; he had witnessed history being made at the political conventions and rallies held there. However, the businessman in him recognized the economic necessity of change. | 